Costa ran the 3.1-mile course at Branch Brook Park in Newark in 22:47.3, an average mile time of 7:28.1. She won the race impressively, by 29 seconds over the second-place runner. Overall, there were 20 runners in the race.

The affable Costa was excited to win the title.

"I was thrilled to win the SEC Championship this year, being the only female runner for Glen Ridge," said Costa. "I also received a season personal record, which was very rewarding. My coaches and teammates have been so supportive and helpful, throughout the weeks, and it meant a lot to me to have them all there cheering me on."

The most exciting part of the cross-country season is underway and Costa knows there are some big races ahead.

"I’m also excited to compete at Brookdale Park for the Essex County championship meet (in late October), and to see how the rest of the season plays out," said Costa.

While the numbers are still fledgling for Glen Ridge female runners, those who are competing are enjoying a lot of success.

Costa's championship this fall succeeds a tremendous spring campaign by Liz O'Connell, a 2018 GRHS graduate. O'Connell earned a medal at the NJSIAA Meet of Champions in the 1,600 meters, the first Ridger to medal there in 24 years. O'Connell also won the county championship in the 1,600, as well as taking second in the 800 and 3,200. She later won the state sectional championship in three events, the 800, 1,600 and 3,200 and, in addition, was part of a gold medal-winning, 4-x-800 team. O'Connell also won the Group 1 championship in both the 1,600 and 3,200 meters.

The Glen Ridge boys ran in the SEC Liberty Division race and finished eighth overall in a competitive event.

Ren DeBartolomeis, a junior, was the first Glen Ridge runner to cross, with an outstanding fifth-place finish in a field of 65 runners. DeBartolomeis' time was 18:16.3.

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